The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a new directive mandating passengers on all domestic and international flights to completely switch off their mobile phones and other electronic devices during take-off and landing.
The announcement, made by NCAA’s Director-General, Capt. Chris Najomo, at a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja ends the long-standing practice of using “airplane mode” while onboard.
Najomo said the measure is part of fresh steps to strengthen aviation safety and restore discipline in the airspace.
“We are tightening compliance rules for both airlines and passengers. The days of lax enforcement are over,” he said.
He disclosed that nationwide sensitisation campaigns will soon begin on radio and television to educate travellers on their obligations. Airlines will also undergo mock drills and close monitoring to ensure full compliance with the new order.
In addition, the NCAA directed operators to retrain crew members on conflict management and professional handling of passengers. Najomo explained that the move was necessary to prevent incidents of confrontation between staff and travellers.
The crackdown follows rising cases of unruly behaviour onboard, including a recent clash involving a passenger, Comfort Emmanson, and an Ibom Air cabin crew.
Michael Achimugu, Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs at NCAA, warned that such behaviour would no longer be tolerated.
“This is not peculiar to Nigeria. Across the world, unruly acts are treated with serious consequences. Here, we are even more humane,” he said.
The NCAA reassured passengers that their rights remain protected, urging them to lodge complaints through its consumer protection desk.
According to the agency, the ultimate goal is to maintain a safe, secure and passenger-friendly aviation system across the country.
